Michelin India — Faulty Tyres

Address:

Gurgaon, Haryana

I bought four Michelin 215/75R15 TL (Lat) tyres on 23 Dec 2013. Out of the four tyres one of the tyres got a crack on the sides within 45 days of purchase. Initially the crack was small and not very much visible, however it started getting bigger. The crack is an uneven crack on the side of the tyre. The tyre was within the guarantee period (within three years). I contacted the dealer on phone and informed him about the crack and instantly got a reply that it must be a cut by some sharp object. Later when I went to the dealership (Zig Wheels) Sec 54, Gurgaon, the dealership owner looked from approximately 4 feet and instantly said it was a cut mark. On protesting and giving him a logical reason that the cut is in the center of the tyre and not the base which touches the ground and the cut is uneven which cannot happen through a sharp object, he said that I need to contact the company employee and he cannot do anything about it. On getting in touch with the company executive, the response was the same. It appeared that everyone is prepared with a predefined answer. Further to my surprise, I was told that the sales person is the final authority and my claim for replacement is being rejected. There is no technical way to determine that it’s a manufacturing defect. The decision was instant and taken within a couple of minutes and later on my consistent persuasion, the tyre was examined. I was informed that it is I crack on the upper layer and the ply beneath is intact. I do not wish to continue with the tyre as it is a danger to me and my family. It is a clear case of cheating and harassing a customer. I was advised to drive with the same tyre or purchase another one. I urge the senior authorities to look into the matter and arrange for the replacement. A straight forward rejection without any logic or reasoning and any technical evaluation is not at all acceptable. It is hard earned money which I have spent and paid 35-40% more than other available and equally trusted brands. I feel cheated and repent on spending with this brand and the kind of behaviour is unexpected from such a reputed brand. Never for a moment i felt that there was an intention to resolve the issue but always a predetermined statement to reject the claim. Abhishek Ruchir [protected]